Child Advocacy Center of Niagara
Written by Britney McCarthy, MSW Intern, University at Buffalo School of Social Work
September is a time to create space for remembrance, learning, and reflection as we recognize the history and lasting impacts of residential and boarding schools on Indigenous children, … Continue reading
The shift back to school brings a lot of changes for families. There are new routines, environments, and relationships. Kids meet new teachers, coaches, bus drivers, and friends. There may be new activities after school, extracurricular meetings, sports practices, or after school childcare. … Continue reading
Peer-on-peer sexual abuse is a serious and often hidden issue that can occur in any setting: schools, sports teams, youth groups, neighborhoods, homes, or online spaces. Sexual behavior, outside of normal healthy sexual development, can be traumatic and harmful to children and youth. … Continue reading
Online gaming has become one of the most popular ways for kids and teens to connect, unwind, and express themselves. But like any online space, gaming comes with risks—especially when kids begin to interact with strangers, join group chats, or explore games with mature themes. … Continue reading
Childhood is meant to be a time when children can learn, grow and explore the world knowing they are loved and protected. Unfortunately, for many children, their childhood is filled with experiences of abuse that can leave deep and lasting emotional wounds. … Continue reading
When a friend shares something serious, like being hurt or abused, it can be a lot to take in. This is a big and important moment, and it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions.
It is important kids know how to respond in a caring, … Continue reading
Every April, communities across the country come together to recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month—a time dedicated to raising awareness, strengthening families, and protecting the most vulnerable among us: our children. This month is not only about acknowledging the existence of abuse, … Continue reading
February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM). This month gives us a powerful opportunity to shine a light on unhealthy behaviors that many teens silently endure in relationships. As well as an opportunity to promote healthy, respectful connections.
What is Teen Dating Violence? … Continue reading
What Is Human Sex Trafficking?
Human sex trafficking is a form of abuse where a person is coerced, manipulated, or forced into engaging in sexual acts or the creation of sexual content for someone else’s benefit. When the victim is a child or youth under 18, … Continue reading
When a child has experienced abuse, their world can feel unsafe, unpredictable, and overwhelming. Healing is possible but it takes patience, compassion, and consistency to rebuild their sense of safety, trust, and self-worth.
Here are some thoughtful, practical ways caregivers can support children on their journey to healing. … Continue reading
